In this colloidal minerals review, we examine what colloidal minerals are, how they form, and how their particles behave when dispersed in a liquid. Colloidal minerals consist of tiny mineral particles that remain suspended rather than fully dissolving as ions. Their characteristic size range places them between dissolved ions and larger suspensions, which affects stability, light scattering, and how the suspension interacts with its surroundings. The review outlines core definitions, measurement conventions, and the vocabulary scientists use to describe these systems. The review then explains the physical mechanisms that keep colloidal minerals in suspension. Key concepts include particle size distribution, Brownian motion, and surface charge or zeta potential, which together influence stability against aggregation and sedimentation. Factors such as the liquid medium, ionic strength, pH, and the presence of stabilizing agents or natural surface coatings can alter how long particles stay dispersed. The discussion highlights how researchers characterize these systems using techniques like dynamic light scattering, electron microscopy, zeta potential measurements, and spectroscopy to build a picture of their structure and behavior. Safety and quality considerations are a major focus of this colloidal minerals review. Variability in source materials, manufacturing methods, and purity can lead to differences in composition and potential contaminants. The review notes that regulatory and quality-control landscapes vary by region, and that independent assessment of purity and particle characteristics is important for evaluating any given product or preparation. Readers are encouraged to consider labeling practices, batch-specific analyses, and the availability of transparent testing data when assessing colloidal mineral preparations. Finally, the review surveys what scientific evidence currently says about colloidal minerals. The literature emphasizes fundamental properties, stability, and analytical approaches rather than prescriptive outcomes or uses. It also points out gaps in high-quality, standardized research and calls for clearer reporting of methods and results. Overall, this colloidal minerals review aims to provide a balanced view of the physical chemistry, measurement techniques, and safety considerations, while noting that consensus on practical implications remains limited and evolving.
